Relative risk

Relative risk (pronounced: /ˈrɛlətɪv rɪsk/), also known as risk ratio (RR), is a statistical term used in epidemiology and medical research to measure the likelihood of a certain event happening in one group compared to the likelihood of the same event happening in another group.

Etymology

The term "relative risk" is derived from the Latin word relativus meaning "relative" and the Old French word risque meaning "danger or harm".

Definition

Relative risk is a ratio that compares the risk of a health event (a disease, injury, treatment outcome) in one group of people to the risk in another group. The groups might differ in terms of a particular characteristic or exposure, such as smoking or diet.

Calculation

The calculation of relative risk involves dividing the probability of the event occurring in the exposed group by the probability of the event occurring in the non-exposed group.

Interpretation

A relative risk of 1 implies that the event is equally likely in both groups. A relative risk greater than 1 implies that the event is more likely in the first group, while a relative risk less than 1 implies that the event is less likely in the first group.

Related Terms

• Odds ratio
• Hazard ratio
• Confidence interval
• Epidemiology
• Medical research

See Also

• Absolute risk reduction
• Number needed to treat

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Relative risk
• Wikipedia's article - Relative risk

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